Longtime former Town of Bracebridge Mayor James “Jim” Lang has died at the age of 89.
Lang served as mayor from 1975 to 1994, a 19-year tenure that made him the town’s longest-serving mayor.
Current Mayor Rick Maloney said Lang helped guide Bracebridge through an important period in the town’s history.
“He believed in building a strong community and in creating places where people could come together,” said Maloney in a post on social media.
During his time as mayor, Maloney said Lang helped oversee several important community projects, including the development of parkland around Bracebridge Falls, the addition to the Carnegie Library, and the Centennial Centre pool and community hall.
Additionally, Maloney said Jim played an important role in securing a land agreement with the Rotary Club of Bracebridge, which allowed the Club to build the Rotary Centre for Youth.
“Jim’s contribution to Bracebridge was about much more than any one project,” said Maloney. “For nearly two decades, he gave his time, energy and leadership to this community. The Bracebridge we know today was shaped in part by the decisions made and foundations built during Jim’s years as Mayor.”
One of Lang’s most lasting legacies, according to Maloney, is the James D. Lang Activity Park, which provides a permanent home for the Bracebridge Fall Fair, Pioneer Power and generations of community gatherings.
“Jim’s service represents an important chapter in the story of Bracebridge and his legacy will remain part of our community for generations,” said Maloney.
Town of Bracebridge officials said other initiatives Lang was involved in include the redevelopment of Bracebridge Bay, the expansion of Kirby’s Beach, the town’s centennial celebration in 1975, the relocation of a portion of Highway 11 and the construction of the Wellington Street Bridge.
Officials said flags have been at half-mast at municipal facilities since Monday.
